In a recent conversation with El Expreso Del Rock, Lamb of God frontman Randy Blythe shared his thoughts on Pantera‘s decision to move forward with a new lineup and reflected on Zakk Wylde’s recruitment.
Pantera reunited in 2022 with a major tour after more than two decades apart. As part of this reunion, Zakk Wylde and Charlie Benante stepped in to replace the late Dimebag Darrell and Vinnie Paul for the shows and future projects, which pleased some fans while disturbing others.
Randy Blythe recently discussed this topic and expressed his support for the lineup change. He acknowledged the controversy surrounding the band’s decision but stated that he personally approved of Phil Anselmo and Rex Brown choosing Wylde and Benante for their respective positions. According to the musician, it was a good idea to choose old-school people who already had relations with the band members and were engaged in their music.
The Lamb of God vocalist’s words read:
“Those guys, the Pantera thing, I mean, that’s their deal. People have different opinions on it. I think they made the right choice in who they picked because I know Zakk was friends with Vinnie and Dime, and I know that Benante from Anthrax was friends with Vinnie and Dime for many, many, many years.
So, I think, for them, it’s good, since they’re going to do these shows, that they keep it in the family old school. I think it needs to be someone old school for them. And I think they made the right choice on who they got to play the parts… That’s just my opinion. I think they made the right choice. It’s really not up to me ’cause I’m not in that band and never have been.”
As for Pantera’s future, the band is gearing up for a full-scale European tour that will commence in May with their current lineup. Furthermore, they are slated to support Metallica on a few selected dates during their 2023-2024 tour in promotion of their new album ’72 Seasons.’
